Borough of Point Pleasant Beach Beautification Committee Minutes
April 25, 2021
The Zoom meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Committee Chair, Mary Steiner.
The following members were in attendance: Danielle Dolan, Maryann Ellsworth, Dorothy Hadley, Mary Hoffman, Karin Magala, Jeanine Mastrokalos, MJ Mitchell, Gary Mecca, Penny Mecca, Barbara Palombo, Monica Post, Mary Lynn Ritchings, Alan Steiner, Chesla Wechsler, Committee Chair Mary Steiner, and Council Liaison Arlene Testa.
Upon motion by Alan, with second by MJ, the minutes of the March 19, 2021 meeting were unanimously approved as read.
Committee Chair Mary Steiner reported that the Committee had received “Thank You” notes from Dave Cavagnaro and Sue Dietz. She thanked Council Members Arlene, Andy, and Caryn; Chesla, Mary Lynn, MJ and all the others who helped with garland removal.
Mary Lynn reported on the status of the new planters and their roll-out. She coordinated with DPW Superintendent John Trout about getting rid of the old barrels. The new planters and special potting mix are being stored at the DPW yard. She walked the downtown business district with Penny and most of the 32 new planters are going where the old barrels were located. All of the planter locations have been marked with a duct-tape “X.” The new planters will be installed, prepped with potting mix and planted beginning at 7 AM on Saturday, May 15th. Most of the planter maintainers will be there that day. A video of how to set-up the planters will be emailed to all involved. Have 2 trucks, driven by Andy and Gary, for planter and potting mix delivery, but 2 more trucks with drivers are needed. Also needed is one more volunteer to take care of 4 planters that day. Jeanine volunteered her husband’s trailer. MJ volunteered to help Penny and Mary Lynn remove the shrink wrap from the planters and any other set-up needed on Friday the 14th. Gary asked if it was okay to fill the 32 planter reservoirs on the following Monday (Yes).
Chairperson Mary Steiner reported that the plants, which are usually delivered two days after Mother’s Day, would be available for pick-up at Sue’s house. They will be sectioned off by location/name for both planters and gardens along with Osmocote. Mary will pick-up additional soil for gardens/barrels and Maryann volunteered to help. The existing barrels that are continuing in use will be planted with trees and vinca.
Chairperson Mary also reported that all planters would be receiving vincas and asked for recommendations on what to put in the middle of the planter. Discussion ensued regarding angelonia, mandevilla and tropical palm including pricing at various vendors. It was decided to go with the mandevilla. The existing barrels that are continuing in use will be planted with trees and vinca.
The Beautification budget is $3,500.00 for 2021. The new planters will require more plants and more greens. Additionally, new decorations will have to be purchased for the garland. As Beautification’s expenses have increased, Mary asked Council Liaison Arlene Testa if it was still possible to get more money allocated to our Committee. Arlene will check with CFO/Administrator Riehl to see if it’s possible to allocate another $500.
Chairperson Mary Steiner reported that she has the little flags and Gary will coordinate with Andy regarding installation. Mary will check on the condition of the large flags.
Public participation was opened and closed with no member of the public participating.
Chairperson Mary Steiner reported that Sandy noticed there was an old phone kiosk by the clock on Arnold Avenue (Councilwomen Arlene and Caryn are trying to get it removed). Sandy also asked: if there was mulch being placed around the trees located downtown (There is a problem with the wind blowing it around) and about the apparent mold on the large wooden planter in front of Borough Hall (Arlene suggested it might need a power wash). Mary added that last year’s Decorative Grass in front of the Borough Hall needs to be cut back.
Mary Lynn advised all that mulch is available at the DPW yard and suggested using it in the old barrels.
Meeting adjourned at 8:13 pm upon motion by Alan and second by Maryann.
Respectfully Submitted,
Maryann Ellsworth
